New rules for speed pedelecs since Jan. 1, 2018

Since Jan. 1, 2018, there have been changes in the legislation surrounding speed pedelecs, but it does not affect all speed pedelecs. What are the changes, and how do you know if you will be affected?

The changes relate to type approval. If a speed pedelec comes under a different type designation, different legal requirements may also apply. So it is important for owners of speed pedelecs to pay attention to this. What about?

The new rules for speed pedelecs

These electric bicycles are registered as mopeds. There is a dichotomy in this. For speed pedelecs that already have license plates, nothing has changed, but on the condition that the owner of the vehicle is already registered with the RDW. However, they must be equipped with a left exterior mirror and an amber retroreflector.

For new bicycles that are not yet registered with the RDW, there is an important change as of January 1, 2018. The owners of these bikes must have European type approval or an individual authorization issued by the RDW. Until 2018, these were allowed to be two type approvals, namely:

• 2002/24
• 168/2013

The first one is no longer the correct inspection. The correct standard is the 168/2013. These codes probably don't mean much to you. The main difference is that speed pedelecs today must have an approved horn and brake light. For speed pedelecs manufactured before 2018, the 2002/24 type approval is sufficient.

How do you find out if your speed pedelec is compliant?

Due to changed requirements over the years, the whole thing is no longer clear. When buying a new bike, everything is aligned with current standards and laws. For older variants, it can still be a figuring out job. In that case, it is best to inquire with the manufacturer or seller of the speed pedelec. They will be able to help you. If you already have a license plate, you can also inquire at the RDW.

What are the rules for using the bicycle?

In addition to the requirements for the bike itself, there are other requirements that are important when using the vehicle. Speed pedelecs must therefore have a license plate and they are required to have third-party liability insurance (WA). On the roadway, you are allowed to ride it at 45 kilometers per hour. On the bike path, you may ride 40 kilometers per hour, except in built-up areas. There the maximum is 30 kilometers. You must also have a moped license (driving license AM), and it is compulsory to wear an approved helmet.

So there are quite a few requirements you have to meet. Now let's hope there won't be more changes to the requirements in the coming years.

Speed pedelec insurance

You can insure a Speed pedelec at Alpina quite easily.